The Cabinet has given its final approval to the draft of “National Human Rights Commission Act, 2026,” which includes a provision to establish a National Preventive Mechanism (NPM) unit to prevent torture, death in custody, or enforced disappearances.
The approval was granted on Monday during the 16th Cabinet meeting held at the Secretariat. According to a press release from the Cabinet Division, the draft contains specific provisions regarding the formation and tenure of the commission.
The inclusion of the NPM unit is in accordance with the United Nations’ “Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture” (OPCAT) to prevent custodial torture, death, or disappearances.
Under the new law, the commission will be comprised of a chairperson and four commissioners. The draft mandates that at least one member of the commission must be a woman.
Furthermore, the Act stipulates that priority must be given to qualified candidates from ethnic minorities and underprivileged groups during the selection process, based on the recommendations of a search committee.
This selection committee will include university professors, civil society representatives, and representatives from ethnic or underprivileged communities.
Enhanced powers and investigations
The new legislation clarifies the commission’s scope of work and simplifies the process for receiving complaints.
Significantly, the commission has been granted the authority to issue interim orders to ensure the immediate safety of victims or to prevent further harm while an investigation is ongoing.
The press release noted that the government considers the creation of an effective and independent human rights commission essential for the preservation, development, and assurance of human rights.
It further stated that respecting human rights is a primary commitment of the state, and Bangladesh remains pledged to upholding international laws, charters, and the UN’s Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
In addition to the draft Human Rights Commission Act, the Cabinet approved a new visa policy designed to streamline the entry and exit of foreigners and encourage foreign investment. The Cabinet also gave policy and final approval to the draft of the Bank Resolution (Amendment) Act.
